Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 1

Written Answers. - Arklow Port.

Dick Roche

Question:

71 Mr. Roche asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will act on the recommendation in the Forfás report and put in train the necessary steps to designate Arklow Port as the new east coast roll-on roll-off ferry port, recognising that such designation would encourage local authorities and statutory bodies to plan for the provision of necessary infrastructure, in particular road infrastructure required to make a success of port expansion in Arklow. [15572/97]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods)

The report referred to recommends that consideration be given to the development of a new ro-ro terminal and port dedicated to freight. Development of such facilities is a matter for the port authorities in the first instance. No process of designation is required or applies to the establishment of facilities at Irish ports.

My Department has received no request for the development of such facilities by Arklow Harbour Commissioners. I am aware of a proposal, which is very much at the conceptual stage only, for such a development at the private port facility of Arklow Head. For that reason my Department has not been in a position to seriously evaluate the proposal. I intend, however, to keep closely in touch with plans for Arklow port and the Deputy can be assured that any worthwhile proposal will be approached positively and constructively.